Forest walks with children. On the lookout for squirrels and gnomes.
Bertine  Kleinjan
Written by Bertine Kleinjan
2 min
22656 x read

Most children would tell their parents they don’t want to go for a walk. But a quest to find gnomes is an entirely different story. Or you might suggest following animal tracks with Joep de Eekhoorn (Squirrel). There is plenty to explore and discover on the Sallandse Heuvelrug, plus all things woods are great for: hide and seek, climbing over tree trunks and splashing in puddles.

Rustling in the bushes

There is always something new to hear or see if you pay attention. Walk slowly and use your eyes and ears. Look behind the foliage. What is that moving behind the leaves? You might see a sand lizard sunbathing or hear a frog ribbiting. There is no need to leave a trail of crumbs like Hansel and Gretel: the coloured posts guide you along your route. Can you see the next post yet?

More detective work

Do you dislike walking, but like climbing, clambering, jumping and swinging? A quest for squirrels is exactly what you need. Wooden squirrels! We are not going to reveal anything yet, but you won’t miss a thing if you follow the instructions. Or you could go hunting for gnomes. Are they real or not? You have more chance of spotting them in autumn, with all the mushrooms about. Can you hear the knocking in the woods? Maybe it’s Mies de Specht? There is also a secret ‘nature playground’. With sand and water. Or do you prefer climbing and building dens? Dirty, muddy clothes guaranteed!

More routes

Even without the treasure hunts with Joep de Eekhoorn (squirrel) or Mies de Specht (woodpecker), there is always something new to discover on the Sallandse Heuvelrug. The Animal Friends trail is great for children under 7 years of age. Older children can join the forest ranger and explore. Or go on the hunt for the most delicious pancake ???? because all this exploring and discovering makes your belly rumble. The routes and treasure hunts all start from the three visitor’s centres in Nijverdal, Holten and Haarle. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes, From old-fashioned and tasty to contemporary and pure. The paths are buggy-proof, And there is free parking. Always check the during school holidays.

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Bertine  Kleinjan
Bertine  Kleinjan
Written byBertine Kleinjan

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